Third Edition
How to Make It in the New Music Business
By Ari Herstand
The practical playbook for building a loyal following and making a living as a musician — without waiting for a big break that may never come.
A best-seller taught in 300+ universities and translated into multiple languages. Forbes calls Ari “the poster child of DIY music.” Written for working musicians — not theory for theory’s sake.
“The best how-to book of its kind.”
What’s inside
The third edition is a full rewrite for the music business musicians actually face now — social discovery, release strategy, royalties, touring, and making money on your own terms.
Release strategy
Day-by-day single and album checklists so you know what to do before, during, and after a release.
Social & discovery
Grow fans on TikTok and social without losing your artistic voice — or burning out chasing trends.
Royalties & money
Collect every royalty you’re owed — streaming, publishing, sync, and the obscure pots most artists miss.
Touring & live
Touring, livestreaming, and building shows that actually pay — not just look good on Instagram.
The indie advantage
How independent artists keep grabbing a larger share of the industry pie, on their own terms.
Careers beyond the stage
100+ music-industry careers beyond “recording artist,” with a clear-eyed look at what each path takes.
About Ari
Los Angeles–based Ari Herstand is the CEO and founder of Ari’s Take, host of the Webby Award–winning New Music Business podcast, and a musician who has played over 1,000 shows and released four albums. He’s spoken at SXSW, Music Biz, NAMM, Berklee, and UCLA, and written for outlets including Variety and American Songwriter. This book is the field guide behind that work — straight talk for artists who want a real career.
Stop waiting for the industry to pick you. Build the career yourself.
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